Ah, fish sauce. The grossest-smelling key ingredient that you need in your life. For something
that is usually only used by the teaspoon in most recipes, it’s one of those things that you really
shouldn’t skip. It adds a depth of umami flavor to many foods that can’t be replicated any other
way. Don’t be turned off by the smell- the flavor it adds won’t taste anything like it. Often used
in Asian recipes, you can also find it in my mushroom sauce recipe and a variety of other
worldwide foods. Although not traditional, a splash really adds some good depth to Hatch green
chile sauce as well.
Having tried a few brands, my absolute favorite (as is many peoples) is 40 DEGREE NORTH
fish sauce. The difference really is noticeable. It’s definitely one of the most expensive options
out there but in my opinion it’s totally worth it- and since you never use too much of it at once
it’ll last you forever. Unlike some of the ingredients in my Thai recipes, 40 Degree North fish
sauce is fairly easy to find. In my area the cheapest option is at my favorite Asian specialty store,
but they also sell it at Whole Foods and some of the specialty / fine food grocers. Or, of course,
you can purchase it online.
